JP6011318B2 - Image forming apparatus and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and related technology, and more particularly to display control technology for an operation panel.

  Many of the operation units of the image forming apparatus are configured to include hardware keys and an operation panel. For example, Patent Document 1 describes an image forming apparatus including a hard key (hardware key) and a touch screen (operation panel). The hardware key is provided outside (around) the operation panel, and functions as an operation input receiving unit that receives an operation input by the operator. As the hardware key, for example, a “start key”, a “stop key”, a “reset key”, and the like are provided. The operation panel functions as a display output unit that displays an operation screen of the image forming apparatus, and also functions as an operation input reception unit that receives an operation input on the operation screen.

JP 2012-129836 A

  When a certain job (copy job or the like) is executed in such an image forming apparatus, the operator performs setting of the certain job via the operation panel, and thereafter, a “start key provided as a hardware key. "" To start the certain job.

  However, in such an operation, even if the setting of a certain job is completed via the operation panel and it becomes possible to start the certain job, the operator cannot move his / her finger from the operation panel. It must be moved to a place where a “start key” provided outside the operation panel is present. In other words, in order to start a job, it is necessary to move a finger largely, and it is difficult to start a certain job immediately.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of immediately starting a job executed on an image forming apparatus while ensuring good operability of an operation screen displayed on an operation panel of the image forming apparatus. There is to do.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention of claim 1 is an image forming apparatus, which displays an operation screen related to a job on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus, and performs an operation input by an operator's finger on the operation screen. An input / output control means for receiving, and a specifying means for specifying the position of the finger in the operation screen as the finger position after the operation input, the input / output control means comprising: After the operation input, a job start button for receiving an instruction to start the job is displayed in the vicinity of the finger position.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, a determination is made as to whether or not a preparatory operation that has been predetermined as indispensable for starting the job is completed in the image forming apparatus. And the input / output control means displays the job start button in the vicinity of the finger position on condition that the determination means determines that the preparation operation has been completed. Features.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention, the operation screen has a plurality of operation buttons, and the input / output control unit includes the job start button and the plurality of operation buttons. Are displayed in a state of being superimposed on at least a part of one operation button present closest to the finger position.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention, the operation screen includes a plurality of operation buttons, and the input / output control unit is configured to control the finger position of the plurality of operation buttons. The job start button is displayed instead of the one operation button that is closest to the user.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the second aspect of the invention, the operation screen has a call button for receiving a setting screen call instruction for a certain setting item, and the input / output control means Even when the determination unit determines that the preparation operation is completed, the job start button is not displayed when an operation input to the call button is accepted.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, an image forming apparatus according to the invention of claim 1, wherein the output control means, on condition that it is possible to start the job is determine a constant, the operation input In response, the job start button is displayed in the vicinity of the finger position.

It invention of claim 7, in the image forming apparatus according to the invention of claim 1, wherein the operation screen comprises a plurality of operation buttons, the input-output control unit is capable of initiating the job on condition that but is determine the constant, in response to the operation input, a confirmation button to accept display instruction to display the setting confirmation screen for confirming the settings of the job, the plurality of operation Instead of the one operation button closest to the finger position among the buttons, it is displayed prior to the job start button, and when a new operation input to the confirmation button is accepted, the setting content confirmation screen is displayed. In addition, the job start button is displayed instead of the confirmation button.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, the input / output control unit stops the job when an operation input to the job start button is received. A cancel button for accepting an instruction to cancel the power is displayed instead of the job start button.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect of the invention, the input / output control unit notifies that the job is being executed when an operation input to the job start button is received. A screen is also displayed.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, the input / output control unit is provided on the condition that a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of display of the job start button. The job start button is hidden.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, the input / output control unit accepts an operation input to a portion other than the job start button in the operation screen. The job start button is hidden on the condition that it has been received.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fourth aspect of the invention, the plurality of operation buttons directly specify the setting contents of a certain setting item by selecting from a plurality of options. A button for specifying a choice as a button, a setting value adjustment button as a button for adjusting a setting value for a certain setting item by increasing and / or decreasing, and a setting value for a certain setting item are set by numerical input. And at least one of a set value input number button that is a button for performing the operation, and the input / output control means is configured such that when the one operation button is the option designating button, the one operation button Instead of displaying the job start button, when the one operation button is the set value adjustment button or the set value input number button, the job start button is displayed. Characterized in that it does not.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, a) a step of displaying an operation screen related to a job on an operation panel of the image forming apparatus on a computer built in the image forming apparatus, and b) an operation input by an operator's finger on the operation screen. C) a step of specifying the finger position in the operation screen as the finger position after the operation input, and d) after the operation input, the job And a step of displaying a job start button for receiving a start instruction in the vicinity of the finger position.

  According to the first to thirteenth aspects of the present invention, after the operation input, a job start button for receiving a job start instruction is displayed in the vicinity of the finger position. Therefore, it is possible to start a job immediately while ensuring good operability of the operation screen displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to avoid displaying a job start button for receiving an instruction to start a job, even though the preparation for starting the job has not been completed. Is possible.

  In particular, according to the invention described in claim 5, even when the job preparation operation is completed, the job start button is not displayed when a setting screen related to a certain setting item is displayed on the operation panel. . Therefore, it is possible to avoid displaying the job start button until the possibility of starting the job is extremely low.

  In particular, according to the invention described in claim 7, the operator can start the job after confirming the setting content of the job using the setting content confirmation screen.

  In particular, according to the invention described in claim 8, the operator can immediately stop the job using the stop button.

  In particular, according to the ninth aspect of the invention, it is possible to make the operator recognize through the notification screen that a job is being executed in the image forming apparatus.

1 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the image forming apparatus. It is a figure which shows the operation screen displayed on an operation panel. It is a figure which shows the operation screen displayed on an operation panel. It is a figure which shows the operation screen displayed on an operation panel. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on a modification. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on a modification. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on a modification. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on a modification. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on a modification. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on a modification. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on a modification. It is a figure which shows the operation screen which concerns on a modification.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<1. First Embodiment>
<1-1. Configuration>
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, an MFP (Multi-Functional Peripheral) is exemplified as the image forming apparatus 10.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating functional blocks of the MFP 10.

  The MFP 10 is a device (also referred to as a multi-function device) having a scan function, a copy function, a facsimile function, a box storage function, and the like. Specifically, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 2, the MFP 10 includes an image reading unit 2, a print output unit 3, a communication unit 4, a storage unit 5, an operation unit 6, and a controller 9. Various functions are realized by operating these components in a complex manner.

  The image reading unit 2 optically reads (that is, scans) a document placed at a predetermined position of the MFP 10 and generates image data of the document (also referred to as a scanned image). It is. The image reading unit 2 is also referred to as a scanning unit.

  The print output unit 3 is an output unit that prints out an image on various media such as paper based on data related to a print target.

  The communication unit 4 is a processing unit capable of performing facsimile communication via a public line or the like. Further, the communication unit 4 can perform network communication via the network NW. In this network communication, for example, various protocols such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) are used. By using the network communication, the MFP 10 can exchange various data with a desired destination.

  The storage unit 5 includes a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD).

  The operation unit 6 includes an operation input unit 6a that receives an operation input to the MFP 10 and a display unit 6b that displays and outputs various types of information. The MFP 10 includes a capacitive operation panel (also referred to as a touch panel or a touch screen) 25 (see FIG. 1). The capacitive touch panel 25 can detect the finger based on a change in capacitance caused by the operator's finger touching the surface of the touch panel 25. Further, the touch panel 25 has the operator's fingers approaching the surface of the touch panel 25 (specifically, the linear distance between the touch panel 25 and the operator's fingers is equal to or less than a predetermined distance (about 5 centimeters). It is also possible to detect the finger based on the change in capacitance due to (). Such an operation panel 25 functions as a part of the operation input unit 6a and also functions as a part of the display unit 6b.

  The controller 9 is a control unit that is built in the MFP 10 and controls the MFP 10 in an integrated manner. The controller 9 is configured as a computer system including a CPU and various semiconductor memories (RAM and ROM). The controller 9 implements various processing units by executing a predetermined software program (hereinafter also simply referred to as a program) PG stored in a ROM (for example, EEPROM) in the CPU. Note that the program (specifically, a program module group) PG may be installed in the MFP 10 via a portable recording medium such as a USB memory or a network NW.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the controller 9 performs various processes including the input / output control unit 11, the setting unit 13, the determination unit 15, the detection control unit 17, and the specifying unit 19 by executing the program PG1. Realize the part.

  The input / output control unit 11 is a processing unit that displays an operation screen on the operation panel 25 of the MFP 10 and receives an operation input (specifically, an operation input by an operator's finger) on the operation screen.

  The setting unit 13 is a processing unit that sets a job (specifically, each setting item of the job) to be executed by the MFP 10 based on the operation input received by the input / output control unit 11.

  The determination unit 15 is a processing unit that determines whether an operation (hereinafter also referred to as a preparation operation) (to be described later) that is indispensable for starting a job has been completed.

  The detection control unit 17 is a processing unit that detects a finger close to the operation panel (touch panel) 25 after an operation input to the operation screen (specifically, immediately after the finger is released from the operation screen). Specifically, the detection control unit 17 approaches a finger that is not touching the touch panel 25 and has a linear distance from the touch panel 25 to the finger being a predetermined distance (for example, 5 centimeters) or less. Detect as a finger. The detection control unit 17 can also detect a finger that is in contact with the touch panel 25.

  The identifying unit 19 is a processing unit that identifies the position of the finger within the operation screen (hereinafter also referred to as the finger position FP) when the operator's finger is detected by the detection control unit 17. Specifically, the identifying unit 19 detects the position of the finger in a plane parallel to the operation screen in the immediately adjacent space (described below) of the operation screen as the finger position FP. The immediately adjacent space is a space close to the operation screen above the operation screen.

<1-2. Operation>
Next, the operation of the MFP 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the MFP 10.

  In the first embodiment, a setting operation of a copy job CJ executed by the MFP 10 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in the copy job CJ setting operation, an operation screen SG1 (see FIG. 4) is displayed on the operation panel 25 as an initial screen.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the operation screen SG1 includes a plurality of operation buttons BT1 to BT7. The plurality of operation buttons BT1 to BT7 are a plurality of setting items relating to the copy job CJ (“original image quality”, “color”, “density”, “paper”, “magnification”, “duplex / page aggregation”, “finish”) Respectively. The operation buttons BT1 to BT7 function as call buttons for receiving call instructions on the setting screens GA1 to GA7 (not shown) relating to the setting items (“document image quality” to “finishing”), respectively.

  When such an operation screen SG1 is displayed on the operation panel 25, the MFP 10 transitions to a state of waiting for an operation input to the operation screen SG1 (hereinafter also referred to as a standby state WS1) (step S11 in FIG. 3).

  If it is determined in the standby state WS1 that an operation input for the operation screen SG1 has been received (YES in step S11), the process proceeds to step S12.

  In step S12, the MFP 10 executes a process corresponding to the operation input on the operation screen SG1. Here, a situation is assumed in which an operation input (touch operation with an operator's finger) on the call button BT6 in the operation screen SG1 (see FIG. 4) is accepted and processing according to the operation input is executed. When an operation input to the call button BT6 in the operation screen SG1 (see FIG. 4) is received, the input / output control unit 11 opens a new operation screen including a setting screen (detailed setting screen) GA6 as shown in FIG. SG2 is displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the setting screen GA6 in the operation screen SG2 includes a plurality of operation buttons BN11 to BN14, BN21 to BN24, and BN31. The operation buttons BN11 to BN14 have a plurality of options (“single side> single side”, “single side> double side”, “double side> single side”, “double side> double side”) for the setting contents of the setting item “double side” of the copy job CJ. This is a button for direct designation by selection from the inside (hereinafter also referred to as option designation button). In other words, the operation buttons BN11 to BN14 select (specify) one option from a plurality of options (“single side> single side”, “single side> double side”, “double side> single side”, “double side> double side”). By doing this, it is a button for directly specifying (setting) the setting contents of the setting item “both sides” of the copy job CJ. The operation buttons BN21 to BN24 are used to select (specify) one option from a plurality of options (“No”, “2in1”, “4in1”, “8in1”), thereby setting items of the copy job CJ. This is an option designation button that directly designates the setting contents of “page aggregation”. Further, the operation button BN31 directly selects the setting option “original setting direction” of the copy job CJ by selecting (specifying) one option from a plurality of options (“vertical”, “horizontal”). This is an option designation button to be designated.

  Next, in step S13 of FIG. 3, the MFP 10 determines whether or not the operation input determined to have been received for the operation screen SG1 (see FIG. 4) in step S11 is an operation input to each of the call buttons BT1 to BT7. Determine. If it is determined that the operation input determined to have been received for the operation screen SG1 in step S11 is an operation input for a portion other than the call buttons BT1 to BT7, the process proceeds to step S14. The processing after step S14 will be described later. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation input determined to have been received for the operation screen SG1 in step S11 is an operation input for each of the call buttons BT1 to BT7, the process returns to step S11. Then, the MFP 10 transitions to a state of waiting for an operation input on the operation screen SG2 (see FIG. 5) (hereinafter also referred to as a standby state WS2).

  If it is determined in the standby state WS2 that an operation input for the operation screen SG2 has been received (YES in step S11), the process proceeds to step S12 again.

  In step S12, the MFP 10 executes a process corresponding to the operation input on the operation screen SG2 this time. Here, it is assumed that an operation input to the operation button BN22 in the setting screen GA6 of the operation screen SG2 is received and a process corresponding to the operation input is executed. When an operation input to the operation button BN22 in the operation screen SG2 (see FIG. 5) is received, the setting unit 13 sets the “page aggregation” related to the setting item “double-sided / page aggregation” from the setting content “no” to the setting content. Change the setting to “2 in 1”.

  Next, in step S13, the MFP 10 determines whether or not the operation input determined to have been received for the operation screen SG2 in step S11 is an operation input for each of the call buttons BT1 to BT7. Here, an operation input for the operation button BN22 in the setting screen GA6 is accepted on the operation screen SG2. Therefore, it is determined that the operation input determined to have been received for the operation screen SG2 in step S11 is an operation input for portions other than the call buttons BT1 to BT7, and the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S <b> 14, the determination unit 15 determines whether or not a preparatory operation PS (PS <b> 1) that is predetermined as essential for starting the copy job CJ has been completed. Here, it is assumed that an operation for placing (setting) a document at a predetermined position of the MFP 10 is determined as the preparation operation PS1. If it is determined that preparation operation PS1 has not yet been completed (that is, no document is set at a predetermined position of MFP 10), the process returns to step S11. On the other hand, if it is determined that the preparation operation PS1 has been completed (that is, the document is set at a predetermined position of the MFP 10), the process proceeds to step S15.

  In step S15, the detection control unit 17 determines whether or not there is a finger close to the operation panel 25 immediately after releasing the finger from the operation screen SG2 (for example, after 0.5 seconds). Specifically, the detection control unit 17 determines whether or not there is a finger whose linear distance from the operation panel 25 to the finger is a predetermined distance (here, 5 centimeters) or less and is not in contact with the operation panel 25. Determine. If it is determined that there is no finger close to the operation panel 25, the MFP 10 ends the processing of the flowchart of FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is a finger close to the operation panel 25, the detection control unit 17 detects the finger. Then, the process proceeds to step S16.

  In step S <b> 16, the specifying unit 19 specifies the finger position FP in the finger operation screen SG <b> 2 detected by the detection control unit 17. Specifically, the specifying unit 19 specifies the finger position in a plane parallel to the operation screen SG2 as the finger position FP in the adjacent space immediately above the operation screen SG2.

  Thereafter, in step S17, the input / output control unit 11 responds to an operation input to the operation button BN22, and receives a button (hereinafter also referred to as a job start button) JS for receiving a start instruction to start the copy job CJ. And displayed near the finger position FP specified by the specifying unit 19. Specifically, the input / output control unit 11 displays the job start button JS near the corresponding position of the finger position FP on the operation screen SG3. Here, the input / output control unit 11 uses the job start button JS in place of the one operation button BN22 existing closest to the finger position FP (specifically, the position corresponding to the finger position FP on the operation screen SG3). indicate.

  For example, after the operation button BN22 in the setting screen GA6 (see FIG. 5) is touch-operated, it is assumed that the operator's finger has once left the operation panel 25 and continues to exist immediately above the operation button BN22. In this case, immediately after the operation input (touch operation) to the operation button BN22 (for example, 0.5 seconds after the touch operation), the input / output control unit 11 displays a new operation screen SG3 as shown in FIG. indicate. The operation screen SG3 is a screen in which the operation button BN22 existing closest to the finger position FP (specifically, the position corresponding to the finger position FP in the operation screen SG3) is switched to the job start button JS.

  Thereafter, the MFP 10 transitions to a state of waiting for an operation input on the operation screen SG3 (see FIG. 6) (hereinafter also referred to as a standby state WS3) (step S18).

  If it is determined in the standby state WS3 that an operation input for the operation screen SG3 has been received (YES in step S18), the process proceeds to step S19.

  In step S19, the MFP 10 determines whether an operation input for the job start button JS is accepted on the operation screen SG3. If it is determined on the operation screen SG3 that an operation input for the job start button JS has been received, the process proceeds to step S20. In step S20, the MFP 10 starts a copy job CJ. On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation input for a portion other than the job start button JS is received on the operation screen SG3, the process proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the input / output control unit 11 hides the job start button JS.

  On the other hand, in the standby state WS3, if it is determined that the operation input for the operation screen SG3 (see FIG. 6) has not been received yet (NO in step S18), the process proceeds from step S18 to step S21.

  In step S21, the MFP 10 determines whether or not a predetermined time (here, 5 seconds) has elapsed since the start of displaying the job start button JS. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not yet elapsed from the start of displaying the job start button JS, the process once returns to step S18. On the other hand, if it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of displaying the job start button JS, the process proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the input / output control unit 11 hides the job start button JS as described above.

  According to the above operation, after the operation input on the operation screen SG, the job start button JS (accepting the start instruction of the copy job CJ) is displayed in the vicinity of the finger position FP (see FIG. 6). For this reason, when the setting operation of the copy job CJ on the operation screen SG is completed and the copy job CJ is to be started, the operator needs to move the finger from the operation screen SG to the hardware key. do not do. Therefore, it is possible to immediately start the copy job CJ while ensuring good operability of the operation screen SG displayed on the operation panel 25 of the MFP 10.

  Further, the job start button JS is displayed in the vicinity of the finger position FP on condition that the determination unit 15 determines that the preparatory operation PS1 predetermined as indispensable for starting the copy job CJ is completed. Is done. Therefore, it is possible to avoid displaying the job start button JS for accepting an instruction to start the copy job CJ even though the preparation for starting the copy job CJ has not yet been completed.

  By the way, as described above, when an operation input to the call button BT6 in the operation screen SG1 (see FIG. 4) is accepted, the setting screen GA6 related to the setting item “both sides / page aggregation” is displayed on the operation panel as shown in FIG. 25. In this case, the operator is very likely to perform the setting operation of the setting item “both sides / page aggregation” via the setting screen GA6, and conversely, the possibility of starting the copy job CJ is extremely low.

  On the other hand, according to the operation of the first embodiment, even when the preparation operation PS1 of the copy job CJ is completed, the operation input for the operation screen SG is the operation input for each of the call buttons BT1 to BT7. If it is determined that the job start button JS is not displayed, the job start button JS is not displayed. For example, even if the preparation operation PS1 for the copy job CJ is completed, an operation input for the operation button BT6 in the operation screen SG1 is accepted, and the setting screen GA6 related to the setting item “duplex / page aggregation” is displayed on the operation panel 25. If the job is to be performed, the job start button JS is not displayed. Therefore, it is possible to avoid displaying the job start button JS until the possibility of starting the copy job CJ is extremely low.

<2. Second Embodiment>
The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the difference from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

  In the first embodiment, the operation of the MFP 10 during the setting operation of the copy job CJ has been described. In the second embodiment, the operation of the MFP 10 during the setting operation of the facsimile transmission job FJ will be described.

  In the first embodiment, the case where the operation button BN22 is immediately switched to the job start button JS as shown in FIG. 6 has been described. In the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the operation button BT25 is temporarily switched to a confirmation button HS (described later) (see FIG. 9), and then the confirmation button HS is switched to a job start button JS (see FIG. 10). .

  Specifically, in the second embodiment, the MFP 10 executes the processing of the flowchart of FIG. 7 when setting the facsimile transmission job FJ. In the flowchart of FIG. 7, instead of the process of step S17 in the flowchart of FIG. 3, the processes of step S31 to step S35 are executed. Further, in the flowchart of FIG. 7, the process of step S13 in the flowchart of FIG. 3 is not executed, and the process directly proceeds from step S12 to step S14.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the MFP 10 according to the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in the setting operation of the facsimile transmission job FJ, an operation screen SG21 (see FIG. 8) is displayed on the operation panel 25 as an initial screen.

  The operation screen SG21 includes a plurality of operation buttons BT21 to BT25 as shown in FIG. Each of the operation buttons BT21 to BT25 selects (specifies) the setting item “destination” from a plurality of options (“user UA”, “user UB”, “user UC”, “user UD”, “user UE”). ) Is a button for option designation that is directly designated (set) by. By selecting one operation button BT from the operation buttons BT21 to BT25, a facsimile destination (transmission destination) in the facsimile transmission job FJ is determined.

  When such an operation screen SG21 is displayed on the operation panel 25, the MFP 10 transitions to a state of waiting for an operation input to the operation screen SG21 (hereinafter also referred to as a standby state WS21) (step S11 in FIG. 7).

  If it is determined in the standby state WS21 that an operation input to the operation screen SG21 has been received (YES in step S11), the process proceeds to step S12.

  In step S12, the MFP 10 executes a process corresponding to the operation input on the operation screen SG21. Here, a situation is assumed in which an operation input (touch operation with an operator's finger) to the option designation button BT25 in the operation screen SG21 (see FIG. 8) is received and processing is executed in accordance with the operation input. When an operation input to the operation button BT25 in the operation screen SG21 is received, the setting unit 13 sets a facsimile transmission destination (destination) in the facsimile transmission job FJ to “user UE”.

  Thereafter, in step S14, the determination unit 15 determines whether or not a preparatory operation PS (PS2) predetermined as essential for starting the facsimile transmission job FJ has been completed. Here, it is assumed that the preparation operation PS2 includes an operation for placing (setting) a document at a predetermined position of the MFP 10 and an operation for setting a facsimile destination. If it is determined that the preparation operation PS2 has not yet been completed, the processing returns to step S11. On the other hand, if it is determined that preparation operation PS1 has been completed (that is, a document is set at a predetermined position of MFP 10 and a facsimile destination is set), the process proceeds to step S15.

  In step S15, the detection control unit 17 determines whether or not there is a finger that is close to the operation panel 25 immediately after the finger is released from the operation screen SG21. If it is determined that there is no finger close to the operation panel 25, the MFP 10 ends the processing of the flowchart of FIG. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is a finger close to the operation panel 25, the detection control unit 17 detects the finger. Then, the process proceeds to step S16.

  In step S <b> 16, the specifying unit 19 specifies the finger position FP in the finger operation screen SG <b> 21 detected by the detection control unit 17. Specifically, the specifying unit 19 specifies the finger position in the plane parallel to the operation screen SG21 as the finger position FP in the adjacent space immediately above the operation screen SG21.

  Thereafter, in step S31, as shown in FIG. 9, the input / output control unit 11 specifies the confirmation button HS for receiving a display instruction of a setting content confirmation screen KG (see FIG. 10) described later by the specifying unit 19. Displayed in the vicinity of the finger position FP. Specifically, the input / output control unit 11 displays the confirmation button HS near the corresponding position of the finger position FP on the operation screen SG22. Here, the input / output control unit 11 displays the confirmation button HS instead of the one operation button BT25 that is closest to the finger position FP (specifically, the position corresponding to the finger position FP on the operation screen SG22). To do.

  As shown in FIG. 9, for example, when the option designation button BT25 is present closest to the finger position FP, the input / output control unit 11 switches the option designation button BT25 to the confirmation button HS. An operation screen SG22 is displayed on the operation panel 25.

  Thereafter, the MFP 10 transitions to a state of waiting for an operation input to the confirmation button HS in the operation screen SG22 (hereinafter also referred to as a standby state WS22) (step S32).

  If it is determined in the standby state WS22 that an operation input for a portion other than the confirmation button HS has been received, the process proceeds to step S34. In step S34, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (here, 5 seconds) has elapsed since the start of display of the confirmation button HS. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not yet elapsed since the start of the display of the confirmation button HS, the process returns to step S32. On the other hand, if it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of display of the confirmation button HS, the process proceeds to step S35. In step S35, the confirmation button HS is hidden.

  If it is determined in the standby state WS22 that an operation input for the confirmation button HS has been received, the process proceeds from step S32 to step S33.

  In step S33, as shown in FIG. 10, the input / output control unit 11 displays a new operation screen SG23 on the operation panel 25. The operation screen SG23 is a screen that displays a setting content confirmation screen KG and displays a job start button JS instead of the confirmation button HS. As shown in FIG. 10, the setting content confirmation screen KG includes confirmation items (“destination”, “date / time”, “transmission source”, “logged-in user”) regarding the facsimile transmission destination (destination) in the facsimile transmission job FJ. Is displayed.

  Thereafter, the MFP 10 transitions to a state of waiting for an operation input on the operation screen SG23 (see FIG. 10) (hereinafter also referred to as a standby state WS23) (step S18).

  If it is determined in the standby state WS23 that an operation input to the operation screen SG23 has been received (YES in step S18), the process proceeds to step S19.

  In step S19, the MFP 10 determines whether an operation input for the job start button JS is accepted on the operation screen SG23. If it is determined on the operation screen SG23 that an operation input for the job start button JS has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S20. In step S20, the MFP 10 starts a facsimile transmission job FJ. The operation after the start of the facsimile transmission job FJ will be described in detail later. On the other hand, if it is determined that an operation input for a portion other than the job start button JS is accepted on the operation screen SG23, the process proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the input / output control unit 11 hides the job start button JS and hides the setting content confirmation screen KG.

  In the standby state WS23, if it is determined that an operation input for the operation screen SG23 has not yet been received (NO in step S18), the process proceeds to step S21. The processing after step S21 is as described in the first embodiment.

  According to the above operation, as shown in FIG. 9, the confirmation button HS is displayed in the vicinity of the operator's finger prior to the job start button JS. Thereafter, when an operation input to the confirmation button HS is accepted, a setting content confirmation screen KG is displayed as shown in FIG. 10, and a job start button JS is displayed instead of the confirmation button HS. Therefore, the operator can start the facsimile transmission job FJ after confirming the setting content of the facsimile transmission job FJ using the setting content confirmation screen KG.

  Note that after the facsimile transmission job FJ is started (after step S20 in FIG. 7), the following operation may be continuously executed.

  Specifically, when the facsimile transmission job FJ is started, the input / output control unit 11 displays a new operation screen SG24 on the operation panel 25 as shown in FIG. The operation screen SG24 is a screen that displays the following notification screen HG and displays a stop button CS instead of the job start button JS (see FIG. 11). The notification screen HG is a screen for notifying that the facsimile transmission job FJ is being executed (facsimile transmission is being performed).

  Thereafter, the MFP 10 transitions to a state of waiting for an operation input on the operation screen SG24 (hereinafter also referred to as a standby state WS24). In the standby state WS24, when an operation input to the cancel button CS in the operation screen SG24 (touch operation with the operator's finger) is accepted, the MFP 10 immediately stops facsimile transmission.

  In such an operation, when the facsimile transmission job FJ is started, the job start button JS is switched to the stop button CS (see FIG. 11). Then, when an operation input (touch operation) for the cancel button CS is accepted, the facsimile transmission job FJ is immediately canceled. Therefore, the operator can immediately cancel the facsimile transmission job FJ being executed in the MFP 10 by using the cancel button CS.

  When an operation input to the job start button JS in the operation screen SG23 (see FIG. 10) is accepted, a new operation screen SG24 including a notification screen HG that notifies that the facsimile transmission job FJ is being executed is displayed on the operation panel. 25 (see FIG. 11). Therefore, it is possible for the operator to recognize that facsimile transmission is being performed via the notification screen HG.

<3. Modified example>
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the contents described above.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, the job start button JS is displayed instead of one operation button that is closest to the finger position FP. However, the present invention is not limited to this. You may make it display in the state superimposed on a part of said one operation button. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, when the operation button BN22 is present closest to the finger position FP, the job start button JS is displayed in a state of being superimposed on a part of the operation button BN22. It may be.

  In the first embodiment, after the operation button BN22 is touch-operated on the operation screen SG3, the operator's finger once leaves the operation panel 25 and continues to be directly above the operation button BN22. Although operation | movement was illustrated, it is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, even when the operator's finger moves to the vicinity of the operation button BN31 after the operation button BN22 is touch-operated on the operation screen SG3, the same as in the first embodiment. It is possible to apply ideas. Specifically, when the operator's finger moves to the vicinity of the operation button BN31, as shown in FIG. 14, the input / output control unit 11 sets the operation button BN31 present closest to the finger position FP to the job start button JS. The new operation screen SG33 that has been switched to is displayed on the operation panel 25. In this case, the detection control unit 17 may detect the finger of the operator after a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed since the finger of the operator leaves the operation panel 25.

  In the first embodiment, the call button BT6 is selected via the operation screen SG1 (see FIG. 4), and the new operation screen SG2 including the setting screen GA6 associated with the call button BT6 (FIG. 5). Although the case where (see) is displayed on the operation panel 25 is exemplified, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when a call button BT other than the call button BT6 is selected via the operation screen SG1, and another setting screen GA associated with the other call button BT is displayed on the operation panel 25, It is possible to apply the same idea as the above embodiment.

  Specifically, when the call button BT3 is selected via the operation screen SG1 (see FIG. 4), and a new operation screen SG34 including the setting screen GA3 is displayed on the operation panel 25 as shown in FIG. It is also possible to apply the same idea as in the above embodiment.

  In addition, when the call button BT5 is selected via the operation screen SG1 (see FIG. 4) and a new operation screen SG36 including the setting screen GA5 is displayed on the operation panel 25 as shown in FIG. It is possible to apply the same idea.

  Hereinafter, (1) the operation of the MFP 10 when the call button BT3 is selected and (2) the operation of the MFP 10 when the call button BT5 is selected will be sequentially described.

  (1) When the call button BT3 is selected via the operation screen SG1, a new operation screen SG34 including the setting screen GA3 is displayed on the operation panel 25 as shown in FIG. The setting screen GA3 includes operation buttons BN61 to BN63 and arrow keys AR1 and AR2.

  The operation buttons BN61 to BN63 are for specifying an option for directly specifying the setting content of the setting item “density” in the copy job CJ by selecting from a plurality of options (“light”, “normal”, “dark”). Button.

  On the other hand, the arrow keys AR1 and AR2 are keys (hereinafter also referred to as adjustment keys) for receiving an instruction to adjust the setting value of the setting item “density” in the copy job CJ step by step. The arrow keys AR1 and AR2 are not buttons for directly specifying the setting content of the setting item “density” by selecting from a plurality of options (in other words, different from the above-described option specifying buttons). Kind of buttons). Specifically, the arrow keys AR1 and AR2 are buttons for adjusting (increasing) and / or decreasing (decreasing) setting contents (specifically, setting values) of the setting item “density” (“ It is also referred to as “set value adjustment button”). More specifically, the arrow key AR1 is a button (“setting value reduction button”) for decreasing (decreasing) the setting content (specifically, its setting value) of the setting item “density”, and the arrow key AR2 is , It is also expressed as a button (“set value increase button”) for increasing (increasing) the setting content (specifically, the set value) of the setting item “density”.

  If the button closest to the finger position FP is the option specifying button after the button is pressed in the operation screen SG34, the input / output control unit 11 replaces the option specifying button. The job start button JS is displayed. For example, immediately after the touch operation of the operation button BN61, when the button closest to the finger position FP is the operation button BN61, as shown in FIG. 16, the input / output control unit 11 changes the operation button BN61. A new operation screen SG35 switched to the job start button JS is displayed on the operation panel 25.

  According to this, immediately after the operation input (touch operation) to the operation screen SG34, the operation button BN61 existing closest to the finger position FP is switched to the job start button JS, so that the copy job CJ can be started immediately. Is possible.

  On the other hand, if the button nearest to the finger position FP is a button other than the option designation button (for example, the adjustment key AR2) after pressing the button in the operation screen SG34, the input / output control unit 11 Does not display the job start button JS (does not display the job start button JS). As a result, the setting item “density” is being set by pressing the adjustment key AR2 several times (for example, immediately after each of the first to fourth pressing operations among the total of five pressing operations). Does not display the job start button JS.

  According to this, it is possible to prevent the job start button JS from being displayed during the setting of the setting item “density”. That is, it is possible to prevent the button being operated (for example, the arrow key AR2) from being switched to the job start button JS before the copy job CJ setting operation is completed. In other words, it is possible to ensure continuity of operation during the setting operation of the copy job CJ.

  (2) Next, the operation of the MFP 10 when the call button BT5 is selected will be described. When the call button BT5 is selected via the operation screen SG1, a new operation screen SG36 including the setting screen GA5 is displayed on the operation panel 25 as shown in FIG. The setting screen GA5 includes a pull-down menu PD, a numeric keypad TK, a magnification display box BX, a magnification up key UK, and a magnification down key DK. The magnification display box BX is a display box for displaying the setting content (specifically, the setting value) of the setting item “magnification” set by the operator. The pull-down menu PD includes a pull-down button RK. When an operation input for the pull-down button RK is received, a plurality of options for setting the value of the setting item “magnification” in the copy job CJ are displayed as shown in FIG.

  The pull-down button RK, the numeric keypad TK, the magnification up key UK, and the magnification down key DK are all directly selected by selecting the value (setting value) of the setting item “magnification” from a plurality of options. is not. In other words, the pull-down button RK, the numeric keypad TK, the magnification up key UK, and the magnification down key DK are all buttons (types) other than the option designation buttons.

  Specifically, the magnification up key UK and the magnification down key DK are used to adjust the setting content (specifically, the setting value) of the setting item “magnification” by increasing (increasing) and / or decreasing (decreasing). Button (“set value adjustment button”). More specifically, the magnification up key UK is a button (“setting value increase button”) for increasing (increasing) the setting content (specifically, its setting value) of the setting item “magnification”, and a magnification down key. DK is also expressed as a button (“setting value reduction button”) for reducing (reducing) the setting content (specifically, the setting value) of the setting item “magnification”. The numeric keypad TK is a button (also referred to as “number button for setting value input”) for setting the setting content (specifically, the setting value) of the setting item “magnification” by numerical input. Furthermore, the pull-down button RK is a button (option display instruction button) for calling up a plurality of options related to the setting contents of the setting item “magnification” (giving display instructions for a plurality of options).

  When an operation input to the pull-down button RK of the pull-down menu PD is accepted on such an operation screen SG36, a plurality of options (“50.0%”) for setting the setting item “magnification” as shown in FIG. , “100.0%”, “200.0%”, “400.0%”). The plurality of options are for directly specifying the setting value of the setting item “magnification”, and correspond to the above-described option specifying buttons. Therefore, when it is determined that one option (for example, magnification “400.0%”) of the pull-down menu exists closest to the finger position FP on the operation screen SG37 (see FIG. 18), the input / output control unit 11 As shown in FIG. 19, an operation screen SG38 in which the one option is switched to the operation input information SJ is displayed on the operation panel 25.

  According to this, immediately after the operation input (touch operation) on the operation screen SG37 (see FIG. 18), the option (magnification “400%”) in the pull-down menu that is closest to the finger position FP is the job start button JS. Therefore, the copy job CJ can be started immediately.

  Note that, after the button on the operation screen SG36 shown in FIG. 17 is operated, if the button closest to the finger position FP is a button other than the option designation button (for example, the magnification up key UK), The output control unit 11 does not display the job start button JS (does not display the job start button JS). As a result, the display operation of the job start button JS is not performed while the setting item “magnification” is being set by pressing the magnification up key UK several times.

  According to this, it is possible to prevent the job start button JS from being displayed while the setting item “magnification” is being set. That is, it is possible to prevent the operation button from being switched to the job start button JS before the copy job CJ setting operation is completed. In other words, it is possible to ensure continuity of operation during the setting operation of the copy job CJ.

  In the first embodiment, when the finger position FP is specified by the specifying unit 19, the job start button JS is used instead of the operation button BN22 existing closest to the finger position FP as shown in FIG. Although the case where is displayed was illustrated, it is not limited to this. For example, when the finger position FP is specified by the specifying unit 19, the same operation as in the second embodiment may be performed.

  Specifically, the following operations may be performed.

  First, when the finger position FP is specified by the specifying unit 19, a confirmation button HS for receiving a setting content confirmation screen display instruction is displayed prior to the job start button JS. When an operation input for the confirmation button HS is received, the input / output control unit 11 displays a setting content confirmation screen for confirming the setting content of the copy job CJ, and replaces the confirmation button HS with a job. A start button JS is displayed. Further, when an operation input for the job start button JS is received, the input / output control unit 11 displays a notification screen informing that the copy job CJ is being executed, and instead of the job start button JS, A stop button CS is displayed. Such an operation may be performed.

  In the second embodiment, the input / output control unit 11 displays a confirmation button HS instead of the operation button BT25 (see FIG. 9), and further displays a job start button JS instead of the confirmation button HS. (See FIG. 10) The case has been illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the input / output control unit 11 may display the confirmation button HS in a state of being superimposed on a part of the operation button BT25, and then display the job start button JS instead of the confirmation button HS. In other words, the input / output control unit 11 may display the job start button JS in a state of being superimposed on a part of the operation button BT25.

  In the first embodiment, the operation of the MFP 10 in the setting operation of the copy job CJ has been described. In the second embodiment, the operation of the MFP 10 in the setting operation of the facsimile transmission job FJ has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the same idea as in each of the above embodiments can be applied to the scan job setting operation executed by the MFP 10. In this case, as the preparatory operation PS (PS3) that is predetermined as indispensable for starting the scan job, an operation of placing (setting) a document at a predetermined position of the MFP 10 is exemplified. .

AR1, AR2 Arrow keys BX Magnification display box CJ Copy job CS Cancel button DK Magnification down key FJ Facsimile transmission job FP Hand position HG Notification screen HS Confirm button JS Job start button KG Setting contents confirmation screen RK Pull down button TK Ten keys UK Magnification up key WS1 to WS3, WS21 to WS24 Above standby state

Claims (13)

An image forming apparatus,
An input / output control means for displaying an operation screen related to the job on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus and receiving an operation input by an operator's finger on the operation screen;
Specifying means for specifying the position of the finger after the operation input and the position of the finger in the operation screen as the finger position;
With
The input / output control unit displays a job start button for receiving a job start instruction after the operation input, in the vicinity of the finger position. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
A determination unit configured to determine whether or not a preparatory operation predetermined as essential for starting the job is completed in the image forming apparatus;
Further comprising
The input / output control unit displays the job start button in the vicinity of the finger position on condition that the determination unit determines that the preparation operation is completed. . The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
The operation screen has a plurality of operation buttons,
The input / output control means displays the job start button in a state of being superimposed on at least a part of one operation button that is closest to the finger position among the plurality of operation buttons. Forming equipment. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.
The operation screen has a plurality of operation buttons,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the input / output control unit displays the job start button instead of one operation button that is closest to the finger position among the plurality of operation buttons. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 .
The operation screen has a call button for receiving a setting screen call instruction for a certain setting item,
The input / output control means does not display the job start button when an operation input to the call button is accepted even when the determination means determines that the preparation operation has been completed. An image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .
It said output control means, on condition that it is possible to start the job is determine the constant, to display the job start button in response to the operation input in the vicinity of the finger position An image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 .
The operation screen has a plurality of operation buttons,
The input / output control means includes
On condition that it is possible to start the job it is determine the constant, in response to the operation input, display to the effect that displays a setting content confirmation screen for confirming the settings of the job A confirmation button for receiving an instruction is displayed prior to the job start button instead of the one operation button present closest to the finger position among the plurality of operation buttons,
When a new operation input to the confirmation button is received, the setting content confirmation screen is displayed, and the job start button is displayed instead of the confirmation button. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
When the operation input to the job start button is received, the input / output control unit displays a stop button for receiving a stop instruction indicating that the job should be stopped instead of the job start button. Forming equipment. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8.
The input / output control unit also displays a notification screen for notifying that the job is being executed when an operation input to the job start button is received. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the input / output control unit hides the job start button on condition that a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of display of the job start button. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the input / output control unit hides the job start button on condition that an operation input to a portion other than the job start button in the operation screen is accepted. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4.
The plurality of operation buttons include an option designation button that is a button for directly designating a setting content of a certain setting item by selection from a plurality of options, and an increase in a setting value for the certain setting item. At least one of a setting value adjustment button that is a button for adjusting by reducing and / or a setting value input number button that is a button for setting a setting value related to a certain setting item by numerical input Have
The input / output control means includes
When the one operation button is the option designation button, the job start button is displayed instead of the one operation button,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the job start button is not displayed when the one operation button is the set value adjustment button or the set value input number button. In the computer built in the image forming device,
a) displaying an operation screen related to a job on an operation panel of the image forming apparatus;
b) receiving an operation input by an operator's finger on the operation screen;
c) specifying the position of the finger after the operation input and the position of the finger in the operation screen as a finger position;
d) after the operation input, displaying a job start button for receiving a job start instruction in the vicinity of the finger position;
A program for running